“As many of you know, Nike has sponsored me and Team Diaz for several years. On the heels of the recent Nike ad involving Colin Kaepernick, I have received numerous messages and posts setting forth people’s very strong opinions on the issue. Some of the messages and posts go so far as to suggest I should denounce Nike and reject them as a sponsor. Others take a position on the other side of the spectrum and support Nike’s message.
Those who know me personally know I am not a political person. I do not and will not express an opinion, one way or the other, on the issue. While there are many issues in this country, America has been very good to me and my family. As Americans, we all have a right to protest under the First Amendment. At the same time, I have family members who work in the military and law enforcement and I greatly respect and support all that they do in their very difficult jobs.
Each person as individuals can decide whether you want to boycott or support Nike. To those who have suggested that people destroy or burn their Nike gear, and to those who are considering doing so, I would suggest that instead of destroying it, perhaps consider donating the Nike gear to someone in need. That might be a better purpose.
I take no position on this issue. All I can say is I appreciate Nike’s support when it comes to my athletes, and I do not consider politics, one way or the other, in that appreciation.”
Julio Garcia
